Gustavus Adolphus College

I was involved in a variety of activities in high school. I played soccer and was on the alpine ski racing team. I also was on the speech team, band and jazz band. By being involved in an array of activities, I met so many different and interesting people, which helped shape who I am today. A significant experience that occurred my senior year during ski season has made an impact on my life. I tore my ACL during practice, and although it was a very upsetting experience consisting of a painful 6 month rehab, I learned from the experience. This experience taught me to slow down, and take everything in. We all have busy lives, but it’s nice to stop every once in awhile and appreciate what life has given us. I believe that everything happens for a reason, and I continue to abide by that rule here at Gustavus.

I was immediately drawn to Gustavus when I came up to visit my brother, who is 2 years older than me. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. The strength in academics at Gustavus also was a strong pull for me, along with the 12:1 student to professor ratio. The small ratio was just what I was looking for. When I did an on-campus tour, I felt like I was right at home and I knew it would be an easy transition from high school to college life.

When I applied to Gustavus, I applied with the intentions of playing soccer. This unfortunately didn’t work out due to me tearing my ACL. I decided to make the best out of the situation by becoming involved in activities on campus. I am currently in bell-choir, and I am also part of the Big Partner Little Partner program. I also played intramural soccer in the fall and spring. I started working for Gustavus Technology Services in January. By being involved in these activities, I have created friendships that I would not have made if I hadn’t become involved. Each activity I am involved with requires commitment that I am willing to give and they all have equal importance to me.

When I applied to Gustavus, I applied with the intentions of playing soccer. This unfortunately didn’t work out due to me tearing my ACL. I decided to make the best out of the situation by becoming involved in activities on campus. I am currently in bell-choir, and I am also part of the Big Partner Little Partner program. I also played intramural soccer in the fall and spring. I started working for Gustavus Technology Services in January. By being involved in these activities, I have created friendships that I would not have made if I hadn’t become involved. Each activity I am involved with requires commitment that I am willing to give and they all have equal importance to me.

I have learned that one must become creative when eating at the Market Place 3 times a day, 7 days a week. I am a big fan of pizza bagels. Making a pizza bagel consists of putting marinara sauce on a bagel, adding some cheese, and popping the bagel on the toaster. They certainly hit the spot.

I like having a good relationship with all of my professors. If I had a question about the course material, I would either stay after class and talk with them, or go visit them during office hours. By having a good relationship with a professor, they see that you care about your education and that you are here to learn. I have felt comfortable with each professor I have had so far.

My dream job would be being a full time mother. I know this is probably unrealistic, because I will need to have a job in order to support my family. In an ideal world, I would love to be at home with my kids all day long. I think it is so important to be there for your kids when raising a family. Being a mother means having many important responsibilities along with showing love and care towards your children. Family is very important to me, and I look at family as a major support system- a stronghold for every member.

I believe the best piece of advice I can give any prospective Gustie, is to follow your heart. You will know when you have found the right college for you. It will feel right. If there is a struggle between picking which college to attend, give it time. Do not let others influence your decision. It may not be clear at first for which college to pick, but you will soon realize after giving it some thought and time. Every incoming freshman is experiencing the same thing you are, even if they aren’t showing it. You need to keep telling yourself that you are not alone. It’s ok to feel a little nervous the first couple days of college, but soon enough, you will get into the routine of things and will have the time of your life.

When there is a huge snowfall up at Gustavus, there’s only one place to find me. I will probably be traying with all of my friends, zooming down the hill at top speed. This is a favorite Gustavus tradition of mine. It’s a great way to let loose, and get rid of all that pent up stress.